Travel distribution system

ABSTRACT

A travel distribution system can include searching for flights for airlines using new distribution capability (NDC) standards, global distribution system (GDS) network, or using Application program interface (API) or websites. Artificial intelligence can also be used to assist the search for best matching a customer&#39;s travel preference profile.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/543,420, filed Aug. 16, 2019, which is a continuation of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 15/192,775, filed Jun. 24, 2016, which claims thebenefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/184,220, filed Jun. 24,2015, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/204,977, filed Aug. 14,2015, each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

Each airline has its own reservation system, which is a computerizedsystem for storing and retrieving information and for conductingtransactions related to air travel. With the advances of internetnetwork, the airline reservation systems have been tailored to meet thecustomer demands, exemplified by the airline websites, in which acustomer can make reservation, purchase ticket, plan traveling trips,together with selecting other features such as upgrading, more leg room,redeeming frequent flyer miles, rebooking canceled flight, selectingseats, purchasing day club passes, priority boarding, and others.

In addition to their own reservation systems, airlines also use a globaldistribution system (GDS), which is a network operated by a company thatallows automated transactions with multiple airlines. Primary customersof GDS are travel agents, who can make travel booking on variousreservations systems run by the airlines. For example, when a travelagency, through GDS, requests a reservation on a particular airline, GDSroutes the request to the appropriate airline computer reservationssystem for seat availability information. Other information such asfares and flight schedules are provided to GDS from third partydatabases. This can allow a travel agent with a connection to a GDS tocompare, choose and book various flight activities on all the airlinesthat are part of that GDS.

FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic of GDS operation according to someembodiments. A GDS system can connect to a schedule database, maintainedby a third party, for flight schedules between two cities. The GDSsystem can connect to multiple airlines for accessing seat availabilityfor the flight schedules. The GDS system can also connect to a faredatabase, maintained by another third party, for fare informationregarding the flight schedules. Travel agencies can then connect to GDSfor searching for flight schedules, seat availability, and fares.

There can be drawbacks with GDS. For example, there can be cost for theairlines associated with transactions booked through GDS, even thoughthe transactions may ultimately be canceled. Thus low cost airlinestypically do not participate in GDS, and prefer maintaining their ownwebsite as the primary distribution channel with cheapest fares.Further, GDS uses a less flexible pre-Internet message protocol, forexample, getting seat availability information directly from airlines,while getting flight schedule and fare information from third partydatabases. Thus added values presented by the airlines cannot bepresented through GDS effectively and attractively.

Thus there is a need for improving the airline distribution system.

SUMMARY

In some embodiments, a travel distribution system can include searchingfor flights for airlines using new distribution capability (NDC)standards, using application program interface (API) or websites of theairlines, and global distribution system (GDS) network. The search usingdifferent protocols can find complete flights from multiple airlines.

In some embodiments, the search can be first performed for airlinesusing new distribution capability (NDC) standards, followed by airlinesusing application program interface (API) or websites of the airlines,and then followed by airlines using global distribution system (GDS)network. The order can provide better flight amenities, e.g., newprograms or features of the airlines that are offered to the customer.

In some embodiments, seamless migration can be provided, for example, toallow ease of transition when an airline migrates from one protocol toanother protocol. A list of airlines with appropriate protocols can bemaintained, and consulted before searching. A seamless transition can beaccomplished by updating the list of airlines with protocolcharacteristics.

In some embodiments, ease of use for the customer can be provided, forexample, to allow a customer familiar with GDS display format to use thecontent rich offerings of NDC format. A display profile can be used forthe customer to select a desired display, such as a GDS-style display oran NDC-style display. A transition can be performed, in which thedisplay can be gradually changed, for example, from GDS to NDC-style,thus allowing the customer to use the content-rich of NDC standards.

Artificial intelligence can also be used to assist the search for bestmatching a customer's travel preference profile. A customer can asked toassist in updating a preference profile, so that better flight selectioncan be achieved.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic of GDS operation according to someembodiments.

FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic for individual airlines access accordingto some embodiments.

FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate configurations of travel distribution systemsaccording to some embodiments.

FIG. 4 illustrates a travel distribution system according to someembodiments.

FIG. 5 illustrates a flow chart for obtaining a flight itinerary for acustomer according to some embodiments.

FIG. 6 illustrates a migration configuration for a travel distributionsystem according to some embodiments.

FIG. 7 illustrates a flow chart for migrating airlines according to someembodiments.

FIG. 8 illustrates a flow chart for obtaining flight itineraries for acustomer according to some embodiments.

FIG. 9 illustrates a configuration for a device incorporating a traveldistribution system according to some embodiments.

FIG. 10 illustrates a configuration of a travel profile according tosome embodiments.

FIG. 11 illustrates a flow chart for a dynamic development of profilesaccording to some embodiments.

FIG. 12 illustrates a computing environment according to someembodiments.

FIG. 13 is a schematic block diagram of a sample computing environmentwith which the present invention can interact.

The figures depict various embodiments of the present invention forpurposes of illustration only. One skilled in the art will readilyrecognize from the following discussion that alternative embodiments ofthe structures and methods illustrated herein may be employed withoutdeparting from the principles of the invention described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In some embodiments, the present invention discloses methods, andsystems employing the methods, to provide a travel distribution systemto meet the needs of a customer. The travel distribution system cansearch through multiple airlines to find flights most suitable to thecustomer. The suitable flights should meet the customer preferences,including amenities such as flight convenience and comfort, usingalgorithms to compare the flight characteristics and amenities with acustomer profile. The profile can also be updated, such as based onactions of the customer.

The travel distribution system can have flexible protocols toefficiently support modern retailing practices such as personalized andcustomized offers, which can be presented effectively and attractivelyto the customers. For example, an airline that offers some extra legroomor a priority boarding option can entice the customers with this addedvalue when selling through the travel distribution system.

In some embodiments, the present invention discloses a traveldistribution system that allows coupling to multiple airlines, forexample, to traditional airlines and to low cost airlines. The couplingof the travel distribution system to multiple airlines can allow thecomparison between airlines, so that consumers can choose a travelpackage that most suits their needs. The selection of travel package caninclude other amenities, such as early boarding, preferred check in,newer aircraft, and aircraft with more leg room, in addition to thebasic information of traveling time and traveling cost.

The present GDS network can be slow to respond to individual airlineneeds, such as including special promotion programs so that customerscan purchase. In addition, not all airlines join GDS network, thus asearch through GDS network can miss flight offers from some airlines,such as low cost airlines that maintain their own website distributionservice to increase profitability and lower operating expenses.

Airlines have provided websites for consumers, who can have the abilityto view rich content, including bundled and special fare offers, as wellas other amenities such as free upgrade, extra leg rooms, redeemfrequent flier miles, and ability for early check in. Large airlines canmaintain their own websites, together with joining GDS network. Thus atravel agency can search the GDS network to find flights for these largeairlines. However, certain low cost airlines do not join GDS network,and rely solely on their websites for attracting customers. Thus atravel agency searching for flights in GDS network does not have acomplete list of available flights.

FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic for individual airlines access accordingto some embodiments. Airlines can maintain websites linked 220 to theinternet 250. A consumer can access 210 individual airlines, forexample, through the internet 250 to their websites, for informationprovided by the airlines. Rich content can be presented at the websites,for example, sale prices, new routes, new planes, etc. The connectioncan be an internet connection, so the customers can view all informationthat the airlines provide.

The airline websites are independent of GDS network, so a customer wouldhave to perform multiple searches, e.g., for the airline websites andfor the GDS network, and to consolidate the searches to obtain availableflight information.

In some embodiments, the present invention discloses a traveldistribution system that can include airlines from different networks,such as airlines from GDS network and airlines from internet network.The travel distribution network can have access to most, if not all,airlines that offer air flights, so that a customer can utilize thetravel distribution system to obtain a comprehensive and complete listof flight information. For example, multiple airlines can participate inthe present travel distribution system, including traditional airlinesand low cost airlines. In addition, the present travel distributionsystem can have access to non-participate airlines, such as from theirwebsites or from their Application Program Interface (API) codes. Thepresence of multiple airlines can allow a complete shopping comparison,e.g., searching through multiple airlines to find a perfect match for acustomer travel plan.

In some embodiments, the present invention discloses a traveldistribution system which can include a platform for communicating withairlines through NDC protocols or standards. The platform can alsocommunicate with airlines through other protocols, such as API access orwebsite access, or through a network, such as the GDS network.

In some embodiments, the NDC protocols can have higher priority forairlines, for example, if an airline uses the NDC protocols and alsoparticipate in GDS system and/or offer services in websites, theplatform can communicate with the airline through the NDC protocols. NDCprotocols can allow a lot more information to be transferred, such asinformation about new planes with extra legroom, with individualentertainment system, or with on time or safety record. This additionalinformation can assist the consumers in deciding between travel plansoffered by different airlines. Thus after the customer provides adesired flight plan, the platform can contact airlines through the NDCprotocols to obtain flight schedules, together with additional servicesoffered by the airlines.

In some embodiments, the present travel distribution system can maintaina database for information from airlines using the NDC protocols. Thusthe platform can search for flight information through the database,instead of through the individual airlines.

In some embodiments, the present travel distribution system can includethe new distribution capability (NDC) data transmission standards, whichpresents data transmission standards for airlines, and which can use aXML-base data transmission standard to enhance the capability ofcommunications with the airlines. The usage of NDC standards can offerimproved services, such as customization and personalization for thecustomers, for example, better than GDS because of flexible programming.Using the NDC standards, the travel distribution system can provide richinformation and airline custom programs to the consumers. For example,airlines can offer a wide variety of products and services, includingcustom programs, similar to their websites to appeal to the consumers,including early boarding, preferred seating, airline lounge access,lie-flat seats, Wi-Fi on international services, three-for-two pricingfrom Air New Zealand, and extra leg room and/or extra recline seatselection (e.g., offered in KLM Economy Comfort). Using the NDCstandards, the present travel distribution system can provide the sameinformation to the consumers. An advantage of the present traveldistribution system is the ability to connect to multiple airlines,e.g., the airlines that accept the NDC standards, thus can aggregateflight information from multiple airlines with a single input from thecustomer, instead of requiring the customer to contact individualwebsites of the airlines.

The usage of NDC standards can also provide significant advantages overcurrent GDS, which might not be aware of the full range of airlineproducts on offer, and which cannot provide airline customized offers tothe customers. For example, to a GDS, one business class seat looks likeany other, e.g., just a code on a screen. The present traveldistribution system can offer all services from multiple airlines, so acustomer can choose the best travel package. For example, the presenttravel distribution system can allow airlines to present and managetheir product offering through indirect sales channels, such as throughtravel agents, in the same way as selling through their own websites.

In some embodiments, the present travel distribution system can includecommunication to the airlines through application programming interface(API) or through websites of the airlines. The API or the websites ofthe airlines can provide basic reference data about the airlines, thusthe travel distribution system can communicate to an airline through theairline API or through the airline websites to access the airline dataand services.

The travel distribution system can include an interface or a platform,e.g., the platform for communicating with airlines through NDCstandards, for communicating with the airlines through their API orthrough their websites, for example, through the internet. In someembodiments, the travel system can use the platform to communicate withairlines that do not use NDC standards. Thus after the customer providesa desired flight plan, the platform can search for flight information inthe internet, e.g., through airline API or through the individualwebsites of airlines that do not use NDC standards.

In some embodiments, the platform can search for flight information fromairlines using NDC standards before searching for flight informationfrom airlines through the airline API or websites. Thus for airlinesusing NDC standards and providing API or websites, the platform cancommunicate with the airlines using NDC standards, and without the needfor communicating through the API or websites.

In some embodiments, the platform can search for flight information fromairlines through the airline API or websites before searching for flightinformation from airlines using NDC standards. Thus for airlines usingNDC standards and providing API or websites, the platform cancommunicate with the airlines using the API or websites, and without theneed for communicating using NDC standards.

In some embodiments, the present travel distribution system can includecommunication to the airlines through a GDS network, such as AmadeusGDS, Sabre GDS, and Travelport GDS. GDS is a network between airlinesand travel agents. In the early days of computerized reservationssystems a flight ticket reservation is not possible without it. In thecomputer age, many airlines have started to sell directly to theirwholesale and retail customers, such as using API or websites.

The travel distribution system can include an interface or a platform,e.g., the platform for communicating with airlines through NDC standardsor through airline API or websites, for communicating with the airlinesthrough a GDS network, for example, for airlines that do not use NDCstandards and/or airlines do not offer API or websites.

In some embodiments, the platform can last search for flight informationfrom airlines through a GDS network, since using NDC standards orairline API or websites can offer richer content than using a GDSnetwork. For example, the platform can first search for flightinformation from airlines using NDC standards, followed by searching forflight information from airlines through the airline API or websites,and followed by searching for flight information from airlines through aGDS network. Alternatively, the platform can first search for flightinformation from airlines through the airline API or websites, followedby searching for flight information from airlines using NDC standards,and followed by searching for flight information from airlines through aGDS network. Thus for airlines using NDC standards and participating inGDS, the platform can communicate with the airlines using NDC standards,and without the need for communicating through a GDS network. Similarly,for airlines providing API or websites, the platform can communicatewith the airlines through the API or websites, and without the need forcommunicating through a GDS network.

The travel distribution system can be configured to work with theadvantages and disadvantages of different protocols. For airlinesparticipating in new distribution capability (NDC) standards, thepresent travel distribution system can obtain all the data that theairlines offer, such as information related to benefits of the flight,such as more legroom due to newer planes, individual entertainmentsystems at every seat (instead of a central entertainment system),priority boarding, and information on luggage. Thus the customer canhave more data to compare and select appropriate airlines and flightservices offered by the airlines. The present travel distribution systemcan also work with GDS and with airlines having individual websites,thus can provide a complete selection of flight schedules from differentairlines.

In some embodiments, the present travel distribution system can allowcomparison-shopping, for example, by sending out multiple shoppingrequests simultaneously to multiple airlines. The shopping requests caninclude a travel plan, such as an origin travel city and a destinationcity. The requests can include various preferences of the customers,which some airlines may be able to satisfy better than others. In somecases, the requests can be an optional request, e.g., the preferencesare optional, and can be presented by different airlines at differentlevels of meeting the preferences. In some cases, the requests can be anintegrated request, e.g., the preferences are as important as the flightschedule, and thus airlines that can't meet the preferences may notrespond. Thus the present travel distribution system can provideshopping comparisons involving more than price and flight schedule.

In some embodiments, the present travel distribution system can beprovided with no extra cost to airlines. For example, the present traveldistribution system can be free to the airlines, thus enticing low costairlines to participate. Alternatively, the present travel distributionsystem can add a fee for rendered services, but only when the airlinesare benefited, such as when a ticket is sold.

In some embodiments, the present invention discloses a traveldistribution system that can respond to customer requests in real time.The present travel distribution system can allow rich content to flowfrom the airline suppliers to the consumer, including fares, schedules,seat descriptions, airport lounge offering, baggage information,frequent flier miles status and ability to use frequent flier miles topurchase tickets or upgrade to a higher class of service, priorityboarding, free limo service, free hotel for overnight connections, andothers. The present travel distribution system can also allow richcontent to flow from the consumers to the airline suppliers, includingfrequent flier information, demographic information, price sensitivitycalculated by algorithms, recommended sale price, recommended perks thatcould help make a sale, and others.

FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate configurations of travel distribution systemsaccording to some embodiments. In FIG. 3A, a platform 320 can beinstalled in an inquirer 310 system, such as in a cell phone or acomputer of the inquirer. The platform 320 can include instructions orprograms to access airlines using NDC standards, to access airlinesusing GDS, or to access airlines using the internet 340, e.g., throughthe airline API or websites. After the inquirer 310 issues an inquiry,e.g., a flight request for traveling from a departure to a destination,the platform can use NDC standards, API and/or websites, and GDSnetwork, to contact airlines #1-#4 to get the flight informationaccording to the flight request. The platform can first approach theairlines using NDC standards, followed by approaching airlines using theairline API or websites (in either order, such as using API firstfollowed by using websites or using websites first followed by usingAPI), followed by approaching airlines using GDS. In some embodiments,the databases of all airlines can be searched simultaneously inparallel, e.g., the platform can simultaneously approach the airlinesusing NDC standards, the airlines using the airline API and websites,and the airlines using GDS.

In FIG. 3B, a platform 325 can be formed independently, such as in acloud accessible through the internet. For example, the platform 325 canbe installed in a server with connection to the internet 345. Aninquirer 315 can access the platform, for example, through the internet.The platform 325 can include instructions or programs to access airlinesusing NDC standards, to access airlines using GDS, or to access airlinesusing the internet 345, e.g., through the airline API or websites. Afterthe inquirer 315 issues an inquiry, e.g., a flight request for travelingfrom a departure to a destination, the platform can use NDC standards,API and/or websites, and GDS network, to contact airlines #1-#4 to getthe flight information according to the flight request. The platform canfirst approach the airlines using NDC standards, followed by approachingairlines using the airline API or websites (in either order, such asusing API first followed by using websites or using websites firstfollowed by using API), followed by approaching airlines using GDS. Insome embodiments, the databases of all airlines can be searchedsimultaneously in parallel, e.g., the platform can simultaneouslyapproach the airlines using NDC standards, the airlines using theairline API and websites, and the airlines using GDS.

FIG. 4 illustrates a travel distribution system according to someembodiments. A travel distribution system 400 can incorporate NDC, thuscan allow a customer or a travel agency to have access to multipleairlines at the same time. The travel distribution system 400 caninclude a platform 410, which can communicate with different airlinesthrough the NDC protocols, and can create and host a single passengeritinerary record with inputs from multiple suppliers providing servicesfor different parts of the itinerary. With the advanced connections 411and 412 with the airlines #1 and #2, such as using XML-based datatransmission standards, an inquirer 440, such as a customer or a travelagency, can communicate 441 with the platform 410, and can access therich contents from the airlines, at least similar to the airlinewebsites. In addition, the connection can provide two-way communication,allowing the airlines to respond to individual customers, e.g.,formulate an offer that is suited to the customers. The offer caninclude the prices and other amenities, such as special meals, earlychecking, etc. The platform 410 can include a database 480. The databasecan include a copy of the data from the airlines, thus can allow fastaccess.

The platform 410 can be configured to communicate 442 with a GDS system.Thus the travel distribution system 400 can communicate with airlines #3and #4, which participate in GDS system, through the connections 421 and422 with GDS system.

The platform 410 can be configured to communicate 461 with airlinesthrough the airline API. Thus the travel distribution system 400 cancommunicate with airline #7 through the connections 461 with APIconfigurations.

An inquirer 440 can go through the platform 410 to get information fromairlines #1-#4 and #7, e.g., airlines using NDC protocols, airlinesparticipating in GDS system, and airlines having API protocols.

In addition, the travel distribution system 400 can provide the inquirerwith access to airlines through the airline websites. Certain airlinesoffer services through their websites, without being accessible throughNDC protocols, GDS system, and/or API information. The traveldistribution service 400 can also provide the inquirer with access tothese airlines.

The travel distribution system 400 can allow a connection to a network,such as the internet, for example, through a browser interface. Forexample, an inquirer 440 can communicate with the platform 410 foraccess to the airlines #1-#4, through NDC protocols and through GDSsystem. The inquirer 440 can connect to the internet for access toairlines #5 and #6, either directly, e.g., from the inquirer to theinternet to the airlines, or through the platform, e.g., from theinquirer to the platform to the internet to the airlines.

In some embodiments, the network connection, e.g., internet browser andinternet communication package, can exist in the inquirer system. Theinquirer can communicate directly with the airlines #5 and #6 throughthe built-in network connection.

After accessing the airlines, e.g., airlines #1-#7, the information fromthe airlines can be consolidated according to the customer preferences.The consolidation can be performed at the platform 410 or at theinquirer 440. For example, the inquirer can access airlines #1-#4 and #7through the platform, and returning the flight information to theinquirer. The inquirer can access airlines #5-#6 through the networkconnection to the airline websites, or the airline's App on a mobiledevice. Information from these airlines can be consolidated, e.g.,gathered together and sorted according to the customer preferences, atthe inquirer.

Alternatively, the platform can access airlines #1-#4 and #7. Theinquirer can access airlines #5-#6 through the network connection to theairline websites, or the airline's App on a mobile device. The inquirerthen routes the information from airlines #5 and #6 to the platform.Information from these airlines can be consolidated, e.g., gatheredtogether and sorted according to the customer preferences, at theplatform, and then presented to the inquirer.

The above description is shown as examples of a travel distributionsystem according to some embodiments. Other configurations can also beused, to allow an inquirer, such as a user, a customer or a travelagency, to have access to flight information from airlines, through NDCstandards, through airline API and websites, and through a GDS network.

FIG. 5 illustrates a flow chart for obtaining a flight itinerary for acustomer according to some embodiments. Operation 500 receives a requestfor a flight itinerary from a customer. The request can be made from adata processing system such as a computer, or from a mobile device. Therequest can include a date of travel, a departing location, adestination location, and optionally other parameters such as mealrestriction or other amenities.

Operation 510 searches for flight characteristics from airlines usingNDC protocols. For example, a platform can contact airlines using NDCprotocols to search for flight schedules. The platform can request theairlines directly for flight characteristics or search a database whichcontains flight characteristics of airlines, with the database gettinginformation using NDC protocols for communication.

Operation 520 searches for flight characteristics from airlines usingthe airlines API. For example, the platform can communicate with theinternet, and then search for airline information using the airline APIdata.

Operation 530 searches for flight characteristics from airlines usingwebsites or their mobile Apps. For example, an inquirer can communicatewith the internet, and then search web sites or mobile Apps of airlinesthat do not participate in GDS system and do not use NDC protocols.

Operation 540 searches for flight characteristics from airlines in GDSsystem. For example, the platform can communicate with GDS system, andthen search a database of the GDS system which contains flightcharacteristics of airlines participating in GDS system.

Operation 550 matches the flight characteristics against the flightitinerary. The search can include the departing city, a destinationcity, and the date of travel. Thus the result of the search can includeflight schedules from airlines that travel from the departing city tothe destination city on that date.

Operation 560 determines optimal itineraries for the customer. Afterobtaining the flight characteristics from the airlines, the flightcharacteristics suitable for the customer can be determined. Thematching and the determination can be performed at the platform or atthe inquirer.

Operation 570 presents the optimal itineraries to the customer in orderof a priority. In some embodiments, an algorithm can be used to removeflight itineraries that are not appropriate. For example, flightitineraries with excessive price, with excessive number of segments, orwith excessive layover time can be removed. The remaining flightitineraries can be presented to the customer, in an order of priority.For example, the flight itineraries can be sorted based on price, numberof segments (e.g., stops), layover times between segments. The sorteddata can be shown to the customer, allowing the customer to select theoptimal itinerary. In some embodiments, an algorithm can prioritize theflight itineraries, e.g., the flight itineraries are sorted based onrelationships between different factors that the customer has specified.

In some embodiments, the present invention discloses a method forgetting a travel itinerary for a customer. The method can includereceiving an input from a customer, wherein the input comprises astarting location, an arrival location, and a date of travel from thestarting location to the arrival location. The method can furtherinclude searching databases of airlines for flights meeting the input,wherein the search uses New Distribution Capability (NDC) datatransmission standards for airlines configured to use NDC datatransmission standards, wherein the search uses Application ProgramInterface (API) protocols for airlines configured to offer APIprotocols, wherein the search uses websites for airlines configured tooffer services by websites, wherein the search uses Global DistributionSystem (GDS) network for airlines configured to participate in GDSnetwork, wherein the order of the search can include searches using NDCstandards first, followed by searches using API protocols or websites,and followed by search using GDS network. The method can further includedisplaying results of the search according to a prioritized scheme.

In some embodiments, the searches can be performed simultaneously inparallel. For example, a search request can be sent for airlines usingNDC standards, immediately followed by a search request for airlinesusing API protocols or websites, and immediately followed by a searchrequest for airlines using GDS network. The search requests can be sentto all airlines using different standards and protocols simultaneouslywithout waiting for any replies.

In some embodiments, the flight search can include searching databasesof the airlines, such as searching for individual databases ofindividual airlines. Further, the search can also collect amenitiesinformation from the airlines in addition to flight schedules.

In some embodiments, the method can include a seamless migration fromdifferent searches, e.g., from searches using NDC standards to searchesusing airline API or websites to searches using GDS network. In thepast, most, if not all, airlines join GDS network for ticket reservationaccess. Recently, airlines, such as low cost airlines, have left GDS tostart their own distribution system, such as selling through the airlineAPI or websites. Further, NDC standards have been proposed, whichattracts airlines to migrate from GDS to NDC.

The present travel distribution system can have access to the differentprotocols, such as NDC, API, website, and GDS, and therefore can performa complete search for flight schedules from multiple airlines. Inaddition, the present travel distribution system can provide a seamlessmigration to NDC standards, from other protocols such as API, website,and GDS.

In some embodiments, the present travel distribution system can providea seamless migration from the existing distribution systems such as API,website, and GDS, allowing users of the existing distribution systems tomigrate to the present travel distribution system with ease.

In some embodiments, the present invention discloses a traveldistribution system that can allow a seamless transition from GDS systemand from airlines operating their own websites. The present traveldistribution system can include interfaces for communication with GDSsystem and with airline websites through the internet. The interfacescan allow the travel distribution system to work with airlines not usingNDC protocols and participating in GDS system and to work with airlinesnot using NDC protocols, not participating in GDS system and maintainingtheir own websites.

The travel distribution system can be configured for migrating airlinesfrom GDS system or from websites to the platform using NDC protocols.Some airlines can decide to utilize NDC protocols, and therefore can bereached by the platform. In some embodiments, the present traveldistribution system can perform automatic conversion, e.g., whenever anairline starts accepting NDC protocols, the platform can assign theairline to the list of airlines accessible by NDC protocols.

For example, many airlines participate in GDS system, with some airlinesjoining the NDC protocols. In the future, some airlines can perceive thebenefits of NDC protocols, and can decide to accept communication usingNDC protocols. The present travel distribution system can automaticallyswitch to using NDC protocols to communicate with the airline, insteadof through the GDS system. Thus the present travel distribution systemcan provide a seamless transition from GDS to NDC. Eventually, airlinescan migrate to platform, and GDS portion can be discontinued.

Some low cost airlines have decided not to join GDS system, for example,due to high cost and/or low benefits. These airlines can operate theirown websites or mobile Apps for travel services. In the future, someairlines can perceive the benefits of NDC protocols, and can decide toaccept communication using NDC protocols. The present traveldistribution system can automatically switch to using NDC protocols tocommunicate with the airline, instead of through the internet. Thus thepresent travel distribution system can provide a seamless transitionfrom websites to NDC. Eventually, airlines can migrate to platform, andweb site and/or mobile App portion can be discontinued.

FIG. 6 illustrates a migration configuration for a travel distributionsystem according to some embodiments. A travel distribution system 600can include a platform 610, which can communicate with differentairlines through the NDC protocols. The platform 610 can communicate 611and 612 with airlines #1 and #2. An inquirer 640 can communicate 641with the platform 610. The platform 610 can include a database 680.

The platform 610 can communicate 642 with the GDS system. Thus thetravel distribution system 600 can communicate with airlines #3 and #4,which participate in GDS system, through the connections 621 and 622with GDS system.

In some embodiments, an airline can migrate to NDC, for example, airline#3 can start communicating using NDC protocols. The travel distributionsystem 600 can then communicate 613 with the airline #3 through theplatform 610 using the NDC protocols. The connection 621 of the airline#3 to the travel distribution system, through the GDS system, can beremoved, e.g., information, such as flight schedules and other data,from the airline #3 can be obtained through the platform 610 using NDCprotocols. For example, when searching GDS for flight schedules, flightdata related to airline #3 can be removed, since this information can beobtained by the platform 610 using NDC protocols.

An inquirer 640 can communicate 643 with airlines #5 and #6, through theinternet through connections 631 and 632. The internet connection caninclude going through the airlines websites, mobile Apps or contactingthe airlines through the airline API.

In some embodiments, an airline not participating in GDS system and notusing NDC protocols can migrate to NDC, such as airlines allowingconnection through the internet. For example, airline #5 can startcommunicating using NDC protocols. The travel distribution system 600can then communicate 614 with the airline #5 through the platform 610using the NDC protocols. The connection 631 of the airline #5 to thetravel distribution system, through the internet, can be removed, e.g.,information, such as flight schedules and other data, from the airline#5 can be obtained through the platform 610 using NDC protocols. Forexample, when searching for flight schedules, the search can bypass,e.g., not considering, web site or mobile APP of airline #5, since thisinformation can be obtained by the platform 610 using NDC protocols.

FIG. 7 illustrates a flow chart for migrating airlines according to someembodiments. Operation 700 provides a travel distribution system,wherein the travel distribution system is configured to contact firstairlines using NDC protocols, wherein the travel distribution system isconfigured to contact second airlines through GDS system, wherein thetravel distribution system is configured to contact third airlinesthrough internet, such as through websites, mobile Apps or API data.

Operation 710 determines that a fourth airline of the second airlinesuses NDC protocols, e.g., migrating from GDS to NDC. The determinationcan be automatic, e.g., the airline activities can be monitored for NDCcompliance to recognize the time when the airline announces the switchto NDC protocols.

Operation 720 configures the travel distribution system to contact thefourth airline using NDC protocols. The configuration can be automatic,e.g., the airline is monitored, and automatically configured by thetravel distribution system.

Operation 730 determines that a fifth airline of the third airlines usesNDC protocols, e.g., migrating from using airline API or website to NDC.The determination can be automatic, e.g., the airline activities can bemonitored for NDC compliance to recognize the time when the airlineannounces the switch to NDC protocols.

Operation 740 configures the travel distribution system to contact thefifth airline using NDC protocols. The configuration can be automatic,e.g., the airline is monitored, and automatically configured by thetravel distribution system.

In some embodiments, the method can maintain a list of airlines. In thelist of airlines, there can be a first sub-list of airlines using NDCstandards, e.g., the airlines in the first sub-list can be searchedusing NDC standards. The list of airlines can include a second sub-list,which can contain airlines providing airline API, e.g., the airlines inthe second sub-list can be searched using the airline API. The list ofairlines can include a third sub-list, which can contain airlinesproviding airline websites, e.g., the airlines in the third sub-list canbe searched using the airline websites. The list of airlines can includea fourth sub-list, which can contain airlines using GDS, e.g., theairlines in the fourth sub-list can be searched using GDS.

In some embodiments, the list of airlines can be configured to specifywhich airlines to be searched by which protocols, e.g., each airline inthe list of airlines can be classified as to be searched using NDCstandards, using airline API, using airline website, or using GDSnetwork. For example, the airlines in the list of airlines can begrouped into multiple sub-lists, with the airlines in each sub-list canbe searched using a protocol.

In some embodiments, a priority scheme can be included, either in thelist of airlines or in a separate element. The priority scheme canspecify which protocol can be searched first. For example, a priorityscheme can specify that the airlines in the list of airlines areconfigured to be searched using NDC standards first, before APIprotocols, websites, or GDS network. Alternatively, the airlines in thelist of airlines are configured to be searched using NDC standardsfirst, followed by either using the airline API or the airline websites,and followed by using the GDS network.

In some embodiments, the seamless transition can be performed byupdating the list of airlines when a characterization of an airlinechanges. For example, the list of airlines can be updated to classify anairline as the airline to be searched using NDC standards when theairline is configured to use or start to use NDC data transmissionstandards, e.g., when the airline is previously configured to beclassified as the airline to be searched using the airline API, usingthe airline website, or using GDS. The list of airlines can be updatedto change the search scheme for an airline when the airline migratesfrom GDS network to NDC standards.

In some embodiments, the method can include obtaining airlines from thelist of airlines before performing the search for flights from theairlines.

In some embodiments, the present invention discloses a traveldistribution system that is compatible with existing travel distributionsystems, such as GDS. The compatibility can ease the transition from theexisting distribution system to the present travel distribution system.For example, the present travel distribution system can provide similargraphic user interface and similar functionality as the existingdistribution system, such as the GDS. Additional information andfunctions can be presented, which can be optional or having defaultvalues, so that users of existing distribution system can use thepresent travel distribution system without a learning curve.

In some embodiments, a display profile can be used to determine thedisplay settings for the output of the travel distribution system. Thedisplay settings can include different settings, such as a setting fordisplaying the output according to NDC standards, e.g., having shownflight schedules together with flight amenities. The customer can setthe display for displaying the output according to GDS, e.g., showingthe flight schedules with or without flight amenities. The displaysettings can be used to perform gradual transitions, for example,gradually changing from GDS-style display to NDC-style display. Forexample, an initial display can be a GDS-style display. After a certaintime, one feature of NDC-style display can be introduced, which does notdisturb the overall feature of the GDS-style display. Additionalfeatures can be introduced, for example, after the customer is used tothe previous features.

Alternatively, the NDC-style display can incorporate the basic of theGDS-style display, with the features related solely to NDC phased in sothat a person familiar with GDS can feel at ease with the NDC-styledisplay.

In some embodiments, the method can include accepting a display profilefrom the customer for displaying the flights according to the profile.The display profile can determine the settings and features of thedisplay, e.g., the display can be based on the display profile of thecustomer. The display can be an NDC compatible display, a GDS compatibledisplay, or a transitional from GDS to NDC display, e.g., the displaycan be compatible with searches using NDC standards, the display can becompatible with searches using GDS network, or the display can beconfigured to provide a transition from searches using GDS network tosearches using NDC standards.

In some embodiments, the present invention discloses a traveldistribution system that allows sharing customer information withairlines, including a two-way communication between the airlines and thecustomers. By letting the airlines know about the customer, such asknowing the preferences of the customers, the airlines can personalizethe offer to the customer, a common practice in most Internet retailactivities. The sharing information can be tailored so that thecustomers do not have to surrender their privacy to compare fares orservices and amenities. The sharing information can be tailored so thatthe consumers can benefit by providing the sharing information. Thusbuying air travel can be similar to other shopping experiences, such asclub members for grocery stores.

For example, depending on the customer's identity, status, history withthe airline, business or pleasure traveling, traveling alone or withfamily, etc., the airlines can generate offers most suited to theconsumers, e.g., offers with relative values to the consumers, inaddition to price, allowing the consumers to have a meaningfulcomparison between airline offers.

In some embodiments, the present travel distribution system can beattractive to both travel agencies and end customers. The present traveldistribution system can help the travel agents to add value to theirclients by allowing for comparisons of product and service optionssimilar to those from multiple airline websites.

In some embodiments, the method can include sharing personal informationof the customer with the airlines in exchange for promotion offerings orfuture promotion offerings from the airlines. The method can includeinforming the airlines that the customer is interested in promotionofferings or future promotion offerings from the airlines.

In some embodiments, the present invention discloses methods, andprograms that can perform the methods, for negotiating with airlines forgetting travel itineraries for a consumer. The programs can run on adata processing system, such as a computer or a mobile device such as acell phone. The methods can include providing customer information to anairline, and negotiating travel plans suitable for the customer from theairlines. The negotiated travel plan can be better suited to thecustomer than a publicly available travel plan.

In some embodiments, the programs can propose that the airlines offeramenities, such as free lounge access, free upgrade, or freepre-boarding to the customer in exchange for getting a sale. Forexample, during the time that the airlines need to sell tickets, forexample, low sale season or early sale time, the programs can negotiatewith the airlines for better travel deals. For example, the programs canrequest extra amenities for the customer, which can be at no cost orsmall cost to the airlines.

In some embodiments, the programs can have access to the airlineinformation, such as the fare structure of the airlines, the sale seasonof the tickets, or in general, the needs of the airlines to saletickets. Having this information, the programs can create a package forthe customer that optimize the sale for both the airlines and thecustomer.

In some embodiments, the present invention discloses travel scores forcustomers, which can indicate a worthiness of the customers to theairlines. For example, a customer that travels a lot on business can bevaluable to the airlines, since the customer can purchase multipleflight plans, and since the customer travels on business, flight pricesis not a serious issue. A customer interested in extra amenities canalso be valuable to the airlines, since amenities have marginalincremental cost to the airlines. A matrix and relationship can be usedto indicate the worthiness of the customer to the airlines, with atravel score characterizing the customer worthiness. The travel scorecan be a number, or can be a set of number. The travel score can be usedfor negotiating with the airlines, since a customer with high travelscore can be valuable to the airlines, and the airlines can offer goodtravel packages for customers with high travel scores.

In some embodiments, a customer can negotiate with an airline to obtaina bargain flight plan. Since the customer has shared his personalinformation with the airline, the airline can see the customer as apotential revenue generator, such as buying multiple future flighttickets and/or luxury amenities. Thus the airline can offer the customera deal that is not available for the general public.

For example, a customer can search and find a flight that he isinterested in purchasing, e.g., a flight suitable for his travel need,but for a few details, such as a little too high a price or a lacking ofan amenity such as no checked bag. The customer can propose to theairline, e.g., through the programs, that he is ready to buy the flightif the airline would agree to his terms, such as a lower price (forexample, the customer would buy the flight plan for $100 less than thelisted price) and/or having a free checked bag.

In some embodiments, the bargaining can be a legal transaction, e.g., aproposed contract between the customer and the airline. In other words,the customer can change his mind, e.g., canceling the offer to purchasethe flight, before the airline agrees to his terms. However, thecustomer is not free to change his mind after the airline has agreed tosell the ticket according to his terms.

In some embodiments, the customer can put a time limit to his offer,e.g., his offer to buy the flight ticket is only good for a period suchas one or two days. The customer can further include a condition thatthe offer can be subjected to cancellation at any time for any reasonbefore the airline responds.

In some embodiments, the present invention discloses methods, andprograms that can perform the methods, for getting travel plans for aconsumer. The programs can run on a data processing system, such as acomputer or a mobile device like a cell phone. The methods can includegetting a desired travel schedule from a customer, generating differenttravel plans from different airlines, and selecting a travel plan thatis most suitable. In some embodiments, the methods can includeartificial intelligence and machine learning to deliver optimal value toboth the airlines and also to the consumers, which can respond to theconsumer requests in real time, creating a package that will beattractive to the specific customer.

In some embodiments, the present invention discloses a method, and aplatform to execute the method, that uses artificial intelligence, suchas computer algorithm, to find suitable flight itineraries for acustomer. The method can include receiving an input from a customer,wherein the input comprises a starting location, an arrival location,and a date of travel from the starting location to the arrival location.The method can further include searching for different flightitineraries meeting the input requirements. The flight itineraries caninclude flight schedules and flight amenities. The method can furtherinclude sorting the searched flights based on a profile of the customer,and displaying a portion of the sorted flights, wherein the portion isbest matched to the profile.

In some embodiments, the search for different flight itineraries caninclude searches using New Distribution Capability (NDC) datatransmission standards for airlines configured to use NDC datatransmission standards, searches using Application Program Interface(API) protocols for airlines configured to offer API protocols, searchesusing websites for airlines configured to offer services by websites,and searches using Global Distribution System (GDS) network for airlinesconfigured to participate in GDS network. The order of the search caninclude searches using NDC standards first, followed by searches usingAPI protocols or websites, and followed by search using GDS network.

In some embodiments, the methods can utilize a travel distributionsystem that communicates with airlines using NDC protocols, withoptionally communicating with airlines participating in GDS system andcommunicating with airlines through the internet. By using the NDCprotocols, the travel distribution system can provide the consumer withtravel plans having more information than just simply flight times,flight fares, and seat availabilities, such as information related tothe passenger comforts (e.g., more legroom and better entertainmentsystems due to newer planes) and information related to amenity that theairlines offer (e.g., lounge access, business or first class upgrade).The additional information can assist the customers in selecting thetravel plans that are most suitable.

FIG. 8 illustrates a flow chart for obtaining flight itineraries for acustomer according to some embodiments. Operation 800 receives a requestfor a flight itinerary from a customer. The request can include astarting location, an arrival location, and a date of travel. Operation810 searches for flight schedules from airlines using NDC protocols,from airlines using web sites, or airline API, and from airlines in GDSsystem.

Operation 820 determines optimal itineraries for the customer based on astored customer profile. Operation 830 presents the optimal itinerariesto the customer in order of a priority, e.g., based on the customerprofile. Operation 840 updates the profile based on the selection of thecustomer, e.g., the selection of a flight schedule can indicate certainpreferences of the customer toward air travel, and these preferences canbe captured in the updated profile.

In some embodiments, the methods can include machine intelligence, whichcan contain algorithms to select travel plans, among the travel planshaving the desired destination, that are most suitable for thecustomers. The algorithm can be based on customer travel profiles, suchas travel preference profiles and behavioral profiles. For example, themethods can remove travel plans with layover time longer than 5 hours,or travel plans with excessive fares, e.g., fares higher than certainlimits.

In some embodiments, the present invention discloses programs that canperform the machine intelligence methods for selecting travel plans forthe customers. The programs can be used in a data processing system suchas a computer, or can be used in a mobile system, such as a cell phone,which can communicate with airlines for generating travel plans, andwhich can perform the machine intelligence algorithms for choosingtravel plans for the customers. The programs can communicate with thecustomers through voice and/or display. For example, a customer candictate (or type) to the programs to find a travel plan on a certaindate to a certain city. The programs can respond by display and/orspeech to tell the customer the available travel options.

In some embodiments, the machine intelligence can make decision, e.g.,selecting travel plans, based on profiles and inputs from the customer.The profiles and inputs can be collected before, during or after findingthe available travel plans. For example, preference travel profiles fromthe customer can be provided to the programs at a beginning, which canallow the programs to choose appropriate travel plans. For example, thecustomer can prefer flight schedules convenience over price, and thuslong overlay time or uncomfortable travel itineraries can be removedfrom consideration, even though these travel itineraries might havelower fares. Different preference travel profiles can be used during thesearch for the travel plans, such as traveling for business (e.g.,business profile) or pleasure (personal profile), with or without familymembers (single or family profile). In addition, inputs from thecustomer can be provided to the programs after getting available travelplans, such as choosing the best plans among the available plans, orasking the programs to widen the search.

In some embodiments, the profiles and inputs from the customers canassist the programs in selecting travel plans, together with improvingthe selection process so that ultimately, the programs can present thecustomer with a travel plan that the customer would approve. The storedinformation, e.g., the profiles, can be used to narrow the search toappropriate travel plans. The selection of the customer can be used infuture search, e.g., the programs can learn from the past experience,for example, by updating the profiles. For example, in the beginning,the programs can offer multiple travel plans, with some plan removedfrom consideration based on the stored information. Later on, theprograms can offer only a few plans, and ultimately, the programs canbook and purchase a travel plan for the customer. With the collecteddata and experience, the programs can be able to choose the travel planthat is most suitable for the customer, e.g., a travel plan that thecustomer would select, based on the available plans.

In some embodiments, the methods can automatically or semi-automaticallyselect travel plans, including removing travel plans that can beconsidered unsuitable. The methods can first collect travel plans fromdifferent airlines, then remove plans that the customers would notconsider, and then present the customers with a small number of travelplans for the customer's final approval.

In some embodiments, the programs can have authority to purchaseairfares. For example, the stored information can include credit cardinformation, so that when a travel plan is approved by the customer, theprograms can purchase the flight. For multiple selections, the programscan require inputs from the customers before purchasing the flight.

In some embodiments, the programs can include machine intelligence, sothat after receiving instruction from the customers, the programs cansearch for flight information, and based on stored data and pastlearning experience with the customers, the programs can select a travelplan that is most suitable for the customers. The programs then canpurchase the flight, and inform the customers of the flight schedule.

In some embodiments, the programs can search for flight continuouslyuntil a good match is found. For example, after getting a request for atravel plan from the customers, the programs can start searching forflight information. The programs can search continuously around theclock, e.g., not just searching one time for flight information. Thecontinuous search can provide better flight selections, for example,better airfare at a certain time and date whenever airlines update orchange their fares.

In some embodiments, the programs can take advantages of the changeablefare structure of the airlines to find a good travel plan. For example,the airlines can offer flight cancellation within 24 hours of booking.Thus the programs can search for flight information, and then select thebest match for booking. After booking, the programs keep searching. If abetter match is found within the 24-hour window, the programs can rebookthe better flight, and then cancel the previously booked flight.

In some embodiments, the programs can book a flight, and continuouslysearching for flights with better matches until the time to pay for thebooked flight. If there are not better flights, then the booked flightis purchased. If there is a better flight, then the booked flight iscanceled, and the better flight is booked. The process can be repeateduntil a flight is purchased.

In some embodiments, the programs can search for flight itinerariesmeeting the customer specification. The programs can then collect otherdata, such as fare, amenity and comforts. Based on the customerprofiles, the programs can choose suitable travel plans for thecustomers. The suitable plans can be presented to the customers forfurther selection or approval.

In some embodiments, the profiles can be generated by collecting dataand information from the customer, which can be used by the programs toselect travel plans. The information can be collected from customerinputs, e.g., in the form of a fill-in questionnaire. The informationcan include name, birthday, traveling preferences, membership infrequent flyer programs, and income. Other information can also becollected, since the information can be used to make decision in travelplan selection. The use of the information can be explicit. For example,a customer can specify that low fare is the highest priority. Thustravel plans selection can be simplified with fares being the toppriority. The use of the information can be implicit. For example, ahigh income customer would be likely to select comforts over prices, andthus higher fare plan for short layover time (e.g., waiting time betweensegments of the travel plans) or additional legroom or better customerservice can be preferred over lower fare plans.

In some embodiments, the information can be collected from public orprivate databases, such as credit history and professional associationof the customers. The information can be collected from the customeractivities, such as from correspondence of the customers, which canindicate a traveling preference of the customers. For example, thecustomers can send emails, discussing traveling, and indicating thatearly check-in or boarding can be an important consideration in airtraveling. This information can be used to choose travel plans, withpriority for airlines offering early checking or boarding.

In some embodiments, the information can be collected from past actionsof the customers. For example, even though the customer specifies apreference of comforts over prices, the customer still selects travelplans having lower fare and slightly high discomforts. Thus the pastactions of the customer can be a more reliable indication of thecustomer travel preference, for example, over the answeredquestionnaires.

FIG. 9 illustrates a configuration for a device incorporating a traveldistribution system according to some embodiments. A device 900, such asa computer system or a cell phone, and in general, a desktop or aportable system having a computational capability, can include aprocessor 940. The processor can communicate, for example, with thecustomer, through an IO module 960, which can include a display, aspeaker, a keyboard, and a microphone. Other components can be includedin the IO module to facilitate or to improve customer communication,such as a voice amplifier for the hard-hearing or a Braille system forthe blind. The device 900 can be placed in the hand of the customer,such as incorporated in a cell phone or in a computer system for thecustomer. The device 900 can be placed in the cloud, e.g., at a remotelocation accessible through a telecommunication system, such as theinternet. The customer can use another device to access the device 900.

The device 900 can include communication interfaces, for example, tocommunicate with airlines or with airline systems for obtaining travelinformation. The communication interfaces can include an interface 910for communication with a travel distribution system, which cancommunicate with airlines using NDC protocols. The communicationinterfaces can include an interface 920 for communication with a GDSsystem, which can communicate with airlines participating in GDS system.The communication interfaces can include an interface 930 forcommunicating with the internet, which can communicate with airlinesthrough the airline websites or their mobile Apps.

In some embodiments, one communication interface can be used tocommunicate with two or more airline protocols, such as with NDC andGDS. Alternatively, the communication interfaces can be partially orwholly incorporated in software, which can be loaded to the processor tocommunicate with the airlines.

The device 900 can include profile module 950 and a profile-updatingmodule 955. The profile module can store profiles of the customers. Forpersonal devices, such as a cell phone, the profile module can store theprofiles of a customer, e.g., the owner of the cell phone. There can bemultiple profiles for a person, such as a business profile for businesstraveling, a business companion profile for family member accompanyingon business trip, a personal profile for personal traveling, and afamily profile for family traveling for leisure.

The device can be configured to run a program that performs a method forgetting a travel plan for the customer. For example, the device can geta proposed travel plan from the customer, such as the date and the citypair of travel. The device then can find flight itineraries fromairlines, for example, by using the communication interfaces forcontacting airlines using NDC protocols, airlines participating in GDSsystem, and airlines having websites and API. The device can use thestored profiles to prioritize the flight itineraries, and then presentthe prioritized flight itineraries to the customer. In the beginning,the device can require inputs from the customer for selecting optimalflight itineraries. The inputs can be used to update the profiles. Thus,after a certain time, the profiles will continue getting moreintelligent and the flight itineraries selected by the program based onthe profiles can be as good as the flight itineraries that the customerselects himself. In some embodiments, the information in the profile canbe collected from inputs from the customer, from information in publicor private databases, and from past actions of the customer.

In some embodiments, the customer can have different profiles based ondifferent purposes. Thus the programs can select different travel plansbased on different profiles specified by the travel purposes of thecustomers. For example, convenience can have higher priority than farefor business traveling. Traveling with family, especially with youngchildren can have different preferences than traveling alone. Thus thecustomer flight preferences can be classified into different modes, suchas business mode for business traveling, personal mode for leisuretraveling, and family mode for traveling with family, either forbusiness or pleasure.

In some embodiments, there can be different preference profiles for acustomer, e.g., a customer can have multiple profiles, depending ondifferent travel purposes. For example, a customer can have a preferenceprofile for business travel, another preference profile for personaltravel, and another preference profile for family companion travel.There can be different scaling factors for same elements in differentprofiles. For example, on-time performance of the flight schedule isimportant in business travel, while price is important in personaltravel.

In some embodiments, after a customer is identified, a profile for thecustomer can be selected for searching flights for the customer. Thecustomer can have one or more stored profiles, and a profile can beselected from a personal profile, a business profile, and a familyprofile.

In some embodiments, the methods can arrange the searched flightitineraries according to a profile of the customer. For example, acustomer can have a first preference of low price, a second preferenceof online checking, for example for seat selection and for less waitingtime at airport counter, and a third preference of less than 6 hourairport layover between flight segments. The method can place the flightitineraries with lower prices first. If there are flights with the sameprice, then flights with online check in option can be placed first. Ifthe flights all have the online check in option, then flights with lessthan 6 hour layover is placed first.

Alternatively, the customer preference can be rated, such as having aranking between 0 and 10. The preference having higher ranking can beselected over the preference with lower ranking, if everything else isthe same. For example, a customer preference can have price to be ranked8, online check in ranked 7, and layover time ranked 5. Then flightswith lower prices are placed first, followed by flights with onlinecheck in option, followed by flight with low layover time.

In some embodiments, the ranking can be gradual, or relative, e.g., notabsolute, such as a ranking of 8 is not absolutely better than a rankingof 7. Each rank number can be worth a value. For example, a price ranked8 can be better than an online check in ranked 7 for less than about$100 to $200. If a flight does not have online check in and costs about$100 less than a flight with online check in, then the flight withonline check in can be placed before the flight with lower price. Inother words, a difference of 1 in ranking for price would not besustained for less than $100 or $200 difference. If a flight does nothave online check in and costs about $500 less than a flight with onlinecheck in, then the flight with lower price can be placed before theflight with online check in. In other words, a difference of 1 inranking for price can be enforced for higher than $200 difference inticket price.

In some embodiments, the methods can classify the searched flightitineraries into multiple groups. The first group can include flightsitineraries that are likely to be selected by the customer, such asflights best matched the customer profile. The second group can includeflights that are borderline. The third group can include flights thatare likely to be rejected by the customer, such as flights poorlymatched the customer profile. For example, if price is a preference ofthe customer, then flights with at least 50% higher price, e.g., overthe lowest airfare, can be placed in the second group, and flights with3X or more higher price can be placed in the third group.

In some embodiments, the profiles or the preference matrix can includemultiple elements, each with different important scale. For example, theprofile can include preferences of the customer, with the preferenceshaving a rating scale. The profiles can include price, which can be aless important factor when travelling for business as compared totravelling for leisure. The profiles can include schedule convenience,which can be more firm for business travel versus more flexibility forleisure travel. The schedule convenience can include departure time,arrival time, number of flight segments, e.g., number of stops, andlayover time between flight segments. The profiles can include otherelements, such as maximum number of stops, connections, or flightsegments, optimal layover time between flight segments, free checkedbags, priority boarding, complimentary upgrades, system wide upgrades,better customer service/dedicated phone lines, discounted/free loungeaccess, mileage earning bonuses, access to preferred seating ahead oftime, waived award fees for tickets, free same-day changes, free ordiscount on ticket change fees, price hold on booking for a period oftime, free/discounted refund or exchange fees, free Wi-Fi, free meals,extra leg room, free entertainment (movies, games etc.).

FIG. 10 illustrates a configuration of a travel profile according tosome embodiments. The profile can have a number of elements. Eachelement of the profiles can have a scaling factor, which indicates theimportance of the element for a particular trip. For example, a customercan place high importance to price, thus the price element can have ascaling factor of, for example, 7 out of 10. The customer can travelalone with minimum baggage, thus can place low importance topre-boarding access or priority boarding, thus the pre-boarding elementcan have scaling factor of, for example, 2 out of 10. The scaling factorcan be a function, instead of a number. For example, a layover time of 2hours can be considered optimal, and can have a scaling factor of 8. Alayover time of 6 or more hours can be considered undesirable, and thuscan have a scaling factor of 1. The profiles can be used to rank thedifferent available travel plans, and the travel plans having high rankscan be selected for the customer review, or for purchasing the flight.The scaling factor can be a function of airlines, e.g., the customer canhave different preferences for different airlines. For example, acustomer may not want American Airlines to offer a lounge at the airportbecause the customer already has a yearly lounge pass with AmericanAirlines. A customer may or may not want United Airlines to offer alounge at the airport because the customer already has a yearly loungepass with American Airlines. For example, if the United Airlines loungeis closer to a departing gate as compared to the American Airlineslounge, the customer might be interested in obtaining the UnitedAirlines lounge pass.

In some embodiments, the profiles can be updated, e.g., the programs canask the customers for additional data, e.g., beyond the stored data andinformation that the customers have supplied, to make decision of travelplan selection. The programs can ask the customers for selecting plans,among different plans. The selection of the customers can be used toimprove the programs. For example, the programs can have amachine-learning module, which can learn from past actions of thecustomers, such as the selection of travel plans that the programspresent to the customers. The programs can provide travel plans withdifferent characteristics, such as one having low fare/low comfort andone having high fare/high comfort. Based on the selection of thecustomers, a preference matrix can be established, formulating apreference relationship between price and comfort.

In some embodiments, the present invention discloses behavioral profilesfor customer travels. The profiles can be dynamically developed, e.g.,the profiles can be updated with the customer behavior and actions. Forexample, an initial profile can be provided, using inputs from thecustomer. The initial profiles can include information similar to thatgiven to a human travel agent. For example, the initial profiles caninclude a preference of the customer regarding seat selection, e.g.,aisle or window seat.

The profiles can be dynamically enhanced, for example, with data inputfrom the client's purchase history and behavior in making choices fromthe travel offerings that are presented to him/her. The profiles canalso be dynamically enhanced with data collected on the client fromsocial media and the World Wide Web. The dynamic enhancement can helprefine the behavioral predictability and help the programs makingdecisions that mirror the client's own behavior.

FIG. 11 illustrates a flow chart for a dynamic development of profilesaccording to some embodiments. Operation 1100 forms a profile for acustomer, wherein the profile is used for determining a travel schedule.The profiles can be formed by a number of questions and answers, such asthe preferences of the customer with respect to travel. Operation 1110updates the profile using actions from the customer. For example, thecustomer can select a flight schedule among a number of flightschedules. The preferences of the selected flight schedule can be usedto update the customer profiles. Operation 1120 updates profile usingdata from social media and the World Wide Web, for example, the customercan post personal data and preferences on professional network or onsocial media. The preferences can be used to update the customerprofiles.

In some embodiments, the profile can be updated based on an action ofthe customer. For example, the profile can be updated when the customerunselects a flight or selects a flight, e.g., the characteristics of theselected or removed flights can be translated into the profile features,so that future selection of flights can be more accurate.

In some embodiments, the customer can be trained to update the profile.Flight selection can be shown, together with reasons for acceptance orfor rejection. Inputs from the customer can be used for update theprofile.

In some embodiments, a flight itinerary can be shown, with all thedetail characteristics, such as flight schedule and flight amenities.The customer can provide input regarding the flight, such as too high aprice or too long a layover time, there is no online check in, etc. Thecustomer input can be used to update the profile.

For example, a searched flight can be shown that is characterized to beremoved from consideration due to not matching the current profile.Reasons for the flight to be removed can also be shown, such as too higha price, too long a layover time, no online check-in, etc. The customercan confirm or reject the reasons. The customer can agree with therecommendation to remove the flight, or the customer can reject therecommendation. The input of the customer can be used to update theprofile.

A searched flight can be shown that is selected due to best matching thecurrent profile. Reasons for the flight to be selected can also beshown, such as good price, reasonable layover time, there is onlinecheck in, etc. The customer can confirm or reject the reasons. Thecustomer can agree with the recommendation to select the flight, or thecustomer can reject the recommendation. The input of the customer can beused to update the profile.

After getting flight schedules from each airline, the programs can matchthe flight schedules against the flight request. The programs candetermine which flight schedules are the optimal itineraries for thecustomer needs based on the profiles that the programs have built on theclient's behavior. The optimal itineraries can then be presented to thecustomer, in order of priority.

In some embodiments, provided is a machine-readable storage, havingstored there on a computer program having a plurality of code sectionsfor causing a machine to perform the various steps and/or implement thecomponents and/or structures disclosed herein. In some embodiments, thepresent invention may also be embodied in a machine or computer readableformat, e.g., an appropriately programmed computer, a software programwritten in any of a variety of programming languages. The softwareprogram would be written to carry out various functional operations ofthe present invention. Moreover, a machine or computer readable formatof the present invention may be embodied in a variety of program storagedevices, such as a diskette, a hard disk, a CD, a DVD, a nonvolatileelectronic memory, or the like. The software program may be run on avariety of devices, e.g. a processor.

In some embodiments, the methods can be realized in hardware, software,or a combination of hardware and software. The methods can be realizedin a centralized fashion in a data processing system, such as a computersystem or in a distributed fashion where different elements are spreadacross several interconnected computer systems. Any kind of computersystem or other apparatus adapted for carrying out the methods describedherein can be used. A typical combination of hardware and software canbe a general-purpose computer system with a computer program that cancontrol the computer system so that the computer system can perform themethods. The methods also can be embedded in a computer program product,which includes the features allowing the implementation of the methods,and which when loaded in a computer system, can perform the methods.

The terms “computer program”, “software”, “application”, variants and/orcombinations thereof, in the context of the present specification, meanany expression, in any language, code or notation, of a set ofinstructions intended to cause a system having an information processingcapability to perform a particular function either directly orindirectly. The functions can include a conversion to another language,code or notation, or a reproduction in a different material form. Forexample, a computer program can include a subroutine, a function, aprocedure, an object method, an object implementation, an executableapplication, an applet, a servlet, a source code, an object code, ashared library/dynamic load library and/or other sequence ofinstructions designed for execution on a data processing system, such asa computer.

In some embodiments, the methods can be implemented using a dataprocessing system, such as a general purpose computer system. A generalpurpose computer system can include a graphical display monitor with agraphics screen for the display of graphical and textual information, akeyboard for textual entry of information, a mouse for the entry ofgraphical data, and a computer processor. In some embodiments, thecomputer processor can contain program code to implement the methods.Other devices, such as a light pen (not shown), can be substituted forthe mouse. This general purpose computer may be one of the many typeswell known in the art, such as a mainframe computer, a minicomputer, aworkstation, or a personal computer.

FIG. 12 illustrates a computing environment according to someembodiments. An exemplary environment for implementing various aspectsof the invention includes a computer 1201, comprising a processing unit1231, a system memory 1232, and a system bus 1230. The processing unit1231 can be any of various available processors, such as singlemicroprocessor, dual microprocessors or other multi-processorarchitectures. The system bus 1230 can be any type of bus structures orarchitectures, such as 12-bit bus, Industrial Standard Architecture(ISA), Micro-Channel Architecture (MSA), Extended ISA (EISA),Intelligent Drive Electronics (IDE), VESA Local Bus (VLB), PeripheralComponent Interconnect (PCI), Universal Serial Bus (USB), AdvancedGraphics Port (AGP), Personal Computer Memory Card InternationalAssociation bus (PCMCIA), or Small Computer Systems Interface (SCSI).

The system memory 1232 can include volatile memory 1233 and nonvolatilememory 1234. Nonvolatile memory 1234 can include read only memory (ROM),programmable ROM (PROM), electrically programmable ROM (EPROM),electrically erasable PROM (EEPROM), or flash memory. Volatile memory1233, can include random access memory (RAM), synchronous RAM (SRAM),dynamic RAM (DRAM), synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), double data rate SDRAM(DDR SDRAM), enhanced SDRAM (ESDRAM), Synchlink DRAM (SLDRAM), or directRambus RAM (DRRAM).

Computer 1201 also includes storage media 1236, such asremovable/nonremovable, volatile/nonvolatile disk storage, magnetic diskdrive, floppy disk drive, tape drive, Jaz drive, Zip drive, LS-100drive, flash memory card, memory stick, optical disk drive such as acompact disk ROM device (CD-ROM), CD recordable drive (CD-R Drive), CDrewritable drive (CD-RW Drive) or a digital versatile disk ROM drive(DVD-ROM). A removable or non-removable interface 1235 can be used tofacilitate connection. These storage devices can be considered as partof the I/O device 1238 or at least they can be connected via the bus1230. Storage devices that are “on board” generally include EEPROM usedto store the BIOS.

The computer system 1201 further can include software to operate in theenvironment, such as an operating system 1211, system applications 1212,program modules 1213 and program data 1214, which are stored either insystem memory 1232 or on disk storage 1236. Various operating systems orcombinations of operating systems can be used.

Input devices can be used to enter commands or data, and can include apointing device such as a mouse, trackball, stylus, touch pad, keyboard,microphone, joystick, game pad, satellite dish, scanner, TV tuner card,sound card, digital camera, digital video camera, web camera, and thelike, connected through interface ports 1238. Interface ports 1238 caninclude a serial port, a parallel port, a game port, a universal serialbus (USB), and a 1394 bus. The interface ports 1238 can also accommodateoutput devices. For example, a USB port may be used to provide input tocomputer 1201 and to output information from computer 1201 to an outputdevice. Output adapter 1239, such as video or sound cards, is providedto connect to some output devices such as monitors, speakers, andprinters.

Computer 1201 can operate in a networked environment with remotecomputers. The remote computers, including a memory storage device, canbe a personal computer, a server, a router, a network PC, a workstation,a microprocessor based appliance, a peer device or other common networknode and the like, and typically includes many or all of the elementsdescribed relative to computer 1201. Remote computers can be connectedto computer 1201 through a network interface 1235 and communicationconnection 1237, with wire or wireless connections. Network interface1235 can be communication networks such as local-area networks (LAN),wide area networks (WAN) or wireless connection networks. LANtechnologies include Fiber Distributed Data Interface (FDDI), CopperDistributed Data Interface (CDDI), Ethernet/IEEE 1202.3, Token Ring/IEEE1202.5 and the like. WAN technologies include, but are not limited to,point-to-point links, circuit switching networks like IntegratedServices Digital Networks (ISDN) and variations thereon, packetswitching networks, and Digital Subscriber Lines (DSL).

FIG. 13 is a schematic block diagram of a sample computing environmentwith which the present invention can interact. The system 1300 includesa plurality of client systems 1341. The system 1300 also includes aplurality of servers 1343. The servers 1343 can be used to employ thepresent invention. The system 1340 includes a communication network 1345to facilitate communications between the clients 1341 and the servers1343. Client data storage 1342, connected to client system 1341, canstore information locally. Similarly, the server 1343 can include serverdata storages 1344.

Having thus described certain preferred embodiments of the presentinvention, it is to be understood that the invention defined by theappended claims is not to be limited by particular details set forth inthe above description, as many apparent variations thereof are possiblewithout departing from the spirit or scope thereof as hereinafterclaimed.

The foregoing description of the embodiments of the invention has beenpresented for the purpose of illustration; it is not intended to beexhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed.Persons skilled in the relevant art can appreciate that manymodifications and variations are possible in light of the abovedisclosure.

Some portions of this description describe the embodiments of theinvention in terms of algorithms and symbolic representations ofoperations on information. These algorithmic descriptions andrepresentations are commonly used by those skilled in the dataprocessing arts to convey the substance of their work effectively toothers skilled in the art. These operations, while describedfunctionally, computationally, or logically, are understood to beimplemented by computer programs or equivalent electrical circuits,microcode, or the like. Furthermore, it has also proven convenient attimes, to refer to these arrangements of operations as modules, withoutloss of generality. The described operations and their associatedmodules may be embodied in software, firmware, hardware, or anycombinations thereof.

Any of the steps, operations, or processes described herein may beperformed or implemented with one or more hardware or software modules,alone or in combination with other devices. In one embodiment, asoftware module is implemented with a computer program productcomprising a computer-readable medium containing computer program code,which can be executed by a computer processor for performing any or allof the steps, operations, or processes described.

Embodiments of the invention may also relate to an apparatus forperforming the operations herein. This apparatus may be speciallyconstructed for the required purposes, and/or it may comprise ageneral-purpose computing device selectively activated or reconfiguredby a computer program stored in the computer. Such a computer programmay be stored in a non-transitory, tangible computer readable storagemedium, or any type of media suitable for storing electronicinstructions, which may be coupled to a computer system bus.Furthermore, any computing systems referred to in the specification mayinclude a single processor or may be architectures employing multipleprocessor designs for increased computing capability.

Embodiments of the invention may also relate to a product that isproduced by a computing process described herein. Such a product maycomprise information resulting from a computing process, where theinformation is stored on a non-transitory, tangible computer readablestorage medium and may include any embodiment of a computer programproduct or other data combination described herein.

Finally, the language used in the specification has been principallyselected for readability and instructional purposes, and it may not havebeen selected to delineate or circumscribe the inventive subject matter.It is therefore intended that the scope of the invention be limited notby this detailed description, but rather by any claims that issue on anapplication based hereon. Accordingly, the disclosure of the embodimentsof the invention is intended to be illustrative, but not limiting, ofthe scope of the invention, which is set forth in the following claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method comprising: receiving an input from acustomer, wherein the input comprises a starting location, an arrivallocation, and a date of travel from the starting location to the arrivallocation; searching databases containing flight information for flightsmeeting the input, wherein the search uses a search scheme on at least alist of airlines, wherein the list of airlines comprises at leastairlines using New Distribution Capability (NDC) data transmissionstandards, wherein the list of airlines is configured to be updated whenan airline migrates to the NDC data transmission standards, and whereinthe search scheme comprises: searching using NDC data transmissionstandards for airlines in the list of airlines, and searching, by atleast one of: (1) using Application Program Interface (API) protocolsfor airlines offering API protocols, (2) using Global DistributionSystem (GDS) network protocols for airlines participating in GDSnetwork, (3) searching websites for airlines offering services bywebsites, or (4) any combination thereof; and presenting to the customerresults of the search according to a prioritized scheme.
 2. The methodof claim 1, wherein the airlines configured to be searched using NDCdata transmission standards are configured to be searched only using NDCdata transmission standards or also configured to be searched using atleast one of API protocols, websites, or GDS network.
 3. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the list of airlines comprises at least one of airlineslisted as offering Application Program Interface (API) protocols, listedas offering services by websites, or listed as participating in GlobalDistribution System (GDS) network.
 4. The method of claim 1, whereinsearching using NDC data transmission standards for airlines configuredto be searched using NDC data transmission standards comprisingsearching one or more databases of the airlines using NDC datatransmission standards.
 5. The method of claim 1, wherein searchingusing API protocols for airlines configured to be searched using APIprotocols comprising searching one or more databases of the airlinesusing API protocols, and wherein searching using GDS network forairlines configured to participate in GDS network comprising searchingone or more databases of the GDS network.
 6. The method of claim 1,wherein the list of airlines is configured to be automatically orperiodically updated when the airline not in the list of airlinesmigrates to the NDC data transmission standards.
 7. The method of claim1, wherein searching websites for airlines configured to offer servicesby websites comprising searching one or more websites of the airlinesoffering services by websites.
 8. The method of claim 1, furthercomprising: obtaining searched protocols of airlines from the list ofairlines before performing the search for flights from the airlines,wherein the searched protocols comprise at least one of protocols forNDC standards, protocols for airline API, protocols for airline website,or protocols for GDS network.
 9. A method comprising: maintaining a listof airlines, wherein airlines in the list of airlines are listed asusing New Distribution Capability (NDC) data transmission standards,wherein the list of airlines is used in a search for a flight itinerary,and wherein the search comprises: searching using NDC data transmissionstandards for airlines in the list of airlines, and searching, by atleast one of: (1) using at least one of Application Program Interface(API) protocols for airlines offering API protocols, or using GlobalDistribution System (GDS) network protocols for airlines participatingin GDS network, or (2) searching websites for airlines offering servicesby websites; and updating the list of airlines when an airline migratesto NDC data transmission standards.
 10. The method of claim 9, wherein:searching using NDC data transmission standards for airlines isconfigured to be searched using NDC data transmission standardscomprising searching one or more databases of the airlines using NDCdata transmission standards; searching using API protocols for airlinesis configured to be searched using API protocols comprising searchingone or more databases of the airlines using API protocols; searchingusing GDS network for airlines is configured to participate in GDSnetwork comprising searching one or more databases of the GDS network;and searching websites for airlines is configured to offer services bywebsites comprising searching one or more websites of the airlinesoffering services by websites.
 11. The method of claim 9, furthercomprising: obtaining searched protocols from airlines from the list ofairlines before performing the search for flights from the airlines,wherein the searched protocols comprise at least one of protocols forNDC standards, protocols for airline API, protocols for airline website,or protocols for GDS network.
 12. The method of claim 9, furthercomprising: receiving an input from a customer; and searching databasescontaining flight information for flights meeting the input using thesearch.
 13. The method of claim 12, further comprising: selecting aprofile of the customer; and sorting the flights meeting the input basedon the profile.
 14. The method of claim 9, wherein the list of airlinesis configured to be automatically or periodically updated when theairline not in the list of airlines migrates to the NDC datatransmission standards.
 15. A method comprising: receiving an input,wherein the input comprises a starting location, an arrival location,and a date of travel from the starting location to the arrival location;searching databases containing flight information for flights meetingthe input, wherein the search uses a search scheme on at least a list ofairlines, wherein the list of airlines comprises at least airlines usingNew Distribution Capability (NDC) data transmission standards, whereinthe list of airlines is configured to be updated when an airlinemigrates to the NDC data transmission standards, and wherein the searchscheme comprises: searching using NDC data transmission standards forairlines in the list of airlines, and searching, by at least one of: (1)using Application Program Interface (API) protocols for airlinesoffering API protocols, (2) using Global Distribution System (GDS)network protocols for airlines participating in GDS network, (3)searching websites for airlines offering services by websites, or (4)any combination thereof; and wherein, based on specified protocols ofthe airlines in the list of airlines, the search scheme comprises:searching using NDC data transmission standards for airlines configuredspecified to be searched using NDC data transmission standards, andsearching using other protocols for airlines not specified to besearched using the NDC data transmission standards; and presentingresults of the search.
 16. The method of claim 15, wherein searchingusing NDC data transmission standards for airlines configured to besearched using NDC data transmission standards comprising searching oneor more databases of the airlines using NDC data transmission standards.17. The method of claim 15, wherein searching using other protocolscomprises using API protocols for airlines configured to be searchedusing API protocols, and using GDS network for airlines configured toparticipate in GDS network.
 18. The method of claim 15, wherein the listof airlines is configured to be automatically or periodically updatedwhen the airline not in the list of airlines migrates to the NDC datatransmission standards.
 19. The method of claim 15, wherein searchingusing other protocols comprises using searching websites for airlinesconfigured to offer services by websites.
 20. The method of claim 15,further comprising: obtaining the specified protocols of airlines beforeperforming the search for flights from the airlines, wherein thespecified protocols comprise at least one of protocols for NDCstandards, protocols for airline API, protocols for airline website, orprotocols for GDS network.